Kevin Jones is the perfect fit for the Beermen says Todd Purves

San Miguel Beer is contented with new import Kevin Jones and active consultant Todd Purves expects him to bring in his solid reputation as a defender and rebounder,as what he has in the NBA D-League, the Beermen move on in the PBA Commissioner's Cup after replacing Josh Boone.

Purves watched Jones during the import in his first official practice with the team on Tuesday, just a day after San Miguel management decided to make the import change despite Boone's impressive outing in their two victories to start the tournament.

“He’s (Jones) a very hard worker. He’s got an all-around game, very versatile, can score both inside and outside and is defense-minded which is always going to be my priority,” Purves shared to Spin.ph at the end of the Beermen's practice at the Reyes gym.

Purves, who has taken a more active role with the team this conference, feels that Jones’ versatility could help the Beermen address match-up problems on defense since the former Cleveland Cavalier can take on both locals and imports.

“He’s (Jones) gonna be versatile, a really great team guy and he’ll continue to provide energy as well,” said the 41-year-old coach. “He’s a good rebounder and I think he’s gonna be a great fit with June Mar (Fajardo) at frontcourt.”

With a lineup loaded both in the frontcourt and the backcourt, Purves said he plans to play the 24-year-old Jones at the power forward spot or the swingman position from time to time, depending on the situation.

Jones arrived early Saturday morning and had two “secret workouts” with several members of the Beermen coaching staff on Sunday and Monday, before being unveiled before the team on Tuesday.

The 6-8 power forward Jones will have his first acid test on Friday when San Miguel battle with co-leader Talk ‘N Text.

The Tropang Texters parade Richard Howell as reinforcement, who in his first two games, has earned a reputation as a solid rebounder after averaging 21 boards this conference in the team’s 2-0 start.

Expect a tough battle of the two rival teams on Friday's main highlight.

--- with reports from Spin.ph

Kevin Jones is the perfect fit for the Beermen says Todd Purves
Reviewed by Jay-R Bayon-on
on
3/11/2014
Rating: 5